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Hyperparathyroidism

Authors:
  • Amy Scholten, MPH
Publication Type:

Condition

Hyperparathyroidism

(Overactive Parathyroid)

Definition

Hyperparathyroidism is when the body makes too much parathyroid hormone (PTH). PTH is made in the parathyroid gland. It helps balance calcium levels in the blood. High PTH causes too much calcium in the blood. There are three types:

  • Primary
  • Secondary
  • Tertiary
Thyroid and Parathyroid Glands.

Copyright © Nucleus Medical Media, Inc.

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Causes

The primary type of hyperparathyroidism may be caused by:

  • A noncancerous tumor—this is the most common cause
  • Some health problems passed from parents to children
  • Cancer—this is rare

The secondary type may be caused by:

  • Low levels of vitamin D
  • Kidney failure or other health problems

The tertiary type is caused by an enlarged parathyroid. It can happen with long term kidney failure.

Risk Factors

This condition is more common in older adults, especially women. Other things that may raise the risk of hyperparathyroidism are:

Symptoms

Most people do not have symptoms of hyperparathyroidism. Those who do may have:

  • Joint or back pain
  • Digestive problems such as:
  • Headache
  • Thirst
  • Urinating often
  • Kidney stones
  • Anxiety, depression, or confusion
  • Tiredness or weakness

Diagnosis

The doctor will ask about symptoms and past health. A physical exam will be done.

Hyperparathyroidism is diagnosed with blood and urine tests. The doctor may also do a scan of the parathyroid gland. Other scans may be done such to check the kidneys and bones.

Treatment

The goal of treatment is to help the body make the right amount of PTH. How this is done depends on the cause. Options may be:

  • Surgery to remove tumors
  • Medicine to treat symptoms and keep levels of calcium and vitamin D in the normal range
  • Management of kidney disease, if present

Blood calcium levels may need to be checked on a regular basis. It can help find problems early. Other tests can also help look for related problems such as bone density tests.

Prevention

Hyperparathyroidism cannot always be prevented. Getting enough calcium and vitamin D may help prevent secondary hyperparathyroidism.

Healthy amounts of calcium and vitamin D may prevent primary hyperparathyroidism in women.

RESOURCES:

CANADIAN RESOURCES:

CANADIAN RESOURCES:

References

  • Hyperparathyroidism. Family Doctor—American Academy of Family Physicians website. Available at: https://familydoctor.org/condition/hyperparathyroidism.
  • Primary hyperparathyroidism. EBSCO DynaMed website. Available at: https://www.dynamed.com/condition/primary-hyperparathyroidism.
  • Secondary hyperparathyroidism. EBSCO DynaMed website. Available at: https://www.dynamed.com/condition/secondary-hyperparathyroidism.
  • Tertiary hyperparathyroidism. EBSCO DynaMed website. Available at: https://www.dynamed.com/condition/tertiary-hyperparathyroidism.
  • Walker, M., and Bilezikian, P. Primary hyperparathyroidism: recent advances. Curr Opin Rheumatol, 2018; 30 (4): 427-439.

Contributors

  • Marcin Chwistek, MD
Last Updated:
2023-06-01

(C) Copyright 2023 EBSCO Information Services

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.